Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott believes Liverpool supporters have ample reason to anticipate a return to the high-octane, “heavy metal” style of football synonymous with Jurgen Klopp’s tenure, now that Andoni Iraola is set to take the helm.
Iraola’s Impact on Bournemouth
Scott, currently training with the England squad in Florida, offers a unique perspective on the incoming Liverpool manager. Iraola signed Scott for £25 million from Bristol City in 2023, and their time together culminated in Bournemouth’s historic first qualification for European competition.
“He is a great manager,” Scott stated. “You see what we have achieved as a club and how we have progressed over the three seasons he was with us. The way we press out of possession is very aggressive, similar to the early Klopp teams at Liverpool – that fierce aggressiveness and pressing with the wingers.”
Excitement for Anfield Faithful
Scott urged Liverpool fans to embrace the change, suggesting Iraola’s philosophy is well-suited for a club of their stature. “Liverpool fans should definitely be so excited. It is a bigger club, but there is no reason why he can’t go in there and be a top manager and take them back to the level they were at.”
Personal Growth Under Iraola
The midfielder also highlighted Iraola’s significant influence on his personal development. “(Iraola) has done a lot for me personally,” Scott shared. “I have improved loads this season, out of possession and in possession. I feel like I have had his trust.”
Scott elaborated on his defensive improvements, acknowledging a need to reach a higher standard for Premier League play. “Defensively, maybe in my first two seasons, I wasn’t at the level to be playing in the Premier League, and that is something I had to learn. But he put his trust in me from the first game of the season and I played 34 full matches, injury free too.”
He credited Iraola’s guidance for his increased playing time and overall improvement. “The manager has been amazing for me, working with me going forward, defensively, being more aggressive, and that is the reason I played most games this season.”
England Prospects and Future Ambitions
Scott’s strong club form has put him on the radar for England, with an anticipated debut against New Zealand in Tampa on Saturday. Having won the Under-21 European Championship last summer, he is part of a talented young group being integrated into senior preparation.
Reflecting on a recent omission from a senior squad, Scott expressed his determination. “When the manager called, he said you won’t be with us, but then straight away said that he really wants me to come to the prep-camp and did I need time to think about it, because he understands how disappointing it can be. But I said yes straight away, it took me two seconds.”
“(Missing out in March) was disappointing, but it was also fuel to go again, keep improving and playing well,” he added. “The talent we have in this country is incredible, just being part of that and around those conversations is great for me. It was definitely about keeping my head down and hopefully I can be in the manager’s plans in the future.”
